The UK Ministry of Defence has confirmed the selection of three new Tier 1 suppliers for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), the trilateral initiative with Japan and Italy to build a sixth-generation fighter jet. The new partners will focus on advanced avionics, composite materials, and AI-driven mission systems.
This expansion reflects the program's shift from concept phase to detailed design and manufacturing. 'GCAP is not just a plane; it's a system of systems,' said the UK Defence Secretary. 'These partnerships ensure that British industry remains at the cutting edge of aerospace innovation.'
The program is on track to deliver a demonstrator aircraft by 2027, with full operational capability targeted for 2035. The inclusion of SMEs in the supply chain was also highlighted as a key priority, ensuring that innovation from smaller agile firms can be rapidly integrated into the platform.